Scope
Landscape ecology is the study of interactions, across space and time, between the structure and function of physical, biological and cultural components of landscapes.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are a key tool for many landscape and ecological researchers. They allow detailed landscape patterns to be observed and analysed, high quality maps to be produced and ultimately are used to help guide effective landscape-scale management and conservation.
This workshop provides an opportunity for postgraduates to be introduced to the spatial data and software packages which are available for landscape-scale research. There will be interactive discussions and a look at some examples of how GIS and spatial analysis is currently being used in scientific research at postgraduate level and beyond.
Programme outline
Day 1 – Spatial Data and Software
- Obtaining spatial data online
- Open source vs. license only data
- When is it worth creating your own data?
- Discussion: our experiences / pro’s and con’s
- FRAGSTATS for analysing landscape patterns
- Conefor and ArcGIS connectivity modelling
Day 2 – GIS in Scientific Research
- Guest speakers from Forest Research, University of Aberdeen and Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (CEH)
- A chance to see and discuss how GIS is used in scientific research from both the academic and commercial perspectives
- Introducing the new RangeShifter software
Dates and Fees
Date: TBC (mid July 2014)
Location: University of Reading
Fee*: £45 (ialeUK members), £80 (non-members) *Includes: Course, tea & coffee, 2x lunch, 1x dinner.
It is possible to apply for funding to help with travel & accommodation costs at http://iale.org.uk/students
Information and registration
Further Details: More detailed information can be found online at http://iale.org.uk/students
Target Group: PhD & MSc students studying landscape ecology or similar*
*ecology, geography, biology, archaeology etc.
Registration: To register your interest, find out more, or book a place please email students [at] iale [dot] org [dot] uk
